Asia Press Agency

Category: BUSINESS

  • Beyond the Core: Luxury Finds a Stronghold in Emerging NCR Pockets

    Beyond the Core: Luxury Finds a Stronghold in Emerging NCR Pockets

    For long, luxury housing in NCR was synonymous with legacy addresses Lutyens’ Delhi, Golf Course Road, or DLF Phase V, where prestige was tied to postcode. However, a growing wave of demand is now sweeping across emerging corridors like the Dwarka Expressway, SPR Road, Sector 150 in Noida, Siddharth Vihar in Ghaziabad, Yamuna Expressway, FNG Corridor, and Neharpar in Faridabad. These locations are on the radar of HNIs and UHNIs seeking modern living, expansive layouts, and better value. With infrastructure catching up and lifestyle aspirations evolving, luxury is moving beyond the core.

    Emerging corridors reshape NCR’s luxury housing market

    As per the CBRE-ASSOCHAM report, Delhi-NCR has witnessed sales of 3,960 luxury homes, each costing Rs 6 crore and above, during the January-June period, an increase of more than three times on an annual basis.

     

    Meanwhile, according to the CREDAI and CRE Matrix Pan India report, India’s housing market witnessed a sharp surge in FY25, with tier I cities recording record-high primary housing sales worth Rs. 6,70,000 crore (US$76.53 billion), marking a 96% jump compared to FY22. Delhi NCR’s residential market, especially in Gurugram, recorded a 313% surge in sales value from FY22, touching Rs. 1,70,000 crore (US$19.42 billion). The shift towards high-value properties and sustained buyer demand underscores changing real estate investment trends across India’s top cities.

     

    Besides, several factors are converging to drive this shift beyond the core, and infrastructure has been the biggest catalyst. Projects like the Delhi-Meerut RRTS, Dwarka Expressway, Noida International Airport, and the KMP Expressway are dramatically improving intercity and intra-city mobility, making once-overlooked locations far more accessible. This, in turn, has allowed developers to reimagine luxury living on a larger canvas.

     

    Ishaan Singh, Director, AIPL said, “As the city grows outward, the definition of luxury is being rewritten. Luxury today is about a balance between nature, technology, and convenience. Sectors along Dwarka Expressway are being recognised for their connectivity and serene surroundings. As developers, we see the location as a blank canvas to introduce mindfully crafted luxury offerings that appeal to a new-age buyer looking beyond traditional neighbourhoods.”

     

    Unlike older neighbourhoods constrained by legacy layouts and limited land, several new micro-markets are carving out a distinct identity within NCR’s luxury landscape. While Dwarka Expressway, with its proximity to the IGI Airport, is witnessing a surge in high-end gated townships designed for the globally mobile elite, SPR is gradually shaping into a natural extension of Golf Course Extension Road, attracting premium residential and mixed-use developments.

     

    In Noida, Sector 150 stands out for its low-density, wellness-oriented planning. Developers like Prateek Group are redefining the sector’s luxury narrative through its luxury project Prateek Canary in the region and fulfilling the evolving requirements of homebuyers. Similarly, in Siddharth Vihar, Ghaziabad, the group’s premium offering responds to a growing appetite for aspirational living backed by infrastructure and accessibility.

     

    Simultaneously, other leading developers like Pyramid and Chintamanis continue to strengthen their foothold along the Dwarka Expressway and SPR. On the other hand, KREEVA and Landmark Group are steadily building their presence with an ultra-luxury pipeline in fast-rising zones of Gurugram.

     

    Vikas Dua, Founder & Director, Chintamanis, says, “HNIs and UHNIs are no longer bound by legacy addresses; they’re driven by lifestyle metrics. Emerging markets like Dwarka Expressway offer the right mix of liveability and future appreciation. The sentiment is shifting from buying into a brand location to buying into a future-ready lifestyle, and that’s where the opportunity lies.”

     

    Ashwani Kumar, Pyramid Infratech, says, “Gurugram’s emerging micro-markets, be it along SPR, Dwarka Expressway, or sectors bordering them, are quickly stepping out of the shadow of the city’s core. These zones are no longer peripheral; they’re high-growth corridors backed by planned infrastructure, expanding social fabric, and increasing investor interest. Hence, we see these areas as the future of aspirational housing – where modern design, connectivity, and long-term appreciation converge to create next-generation investment opportunities.”

     

    Therefore, as infrastructure expands and connectivity deepens, these micro-markets offer a rare blend of space, planning, lifestyle features, and future appreciation – elements that today’s evolved homebuyers actively seek.

  • Mumbai Indians extend Mighty Indians IP with 3D Webisodes and More

    Mumbai Indians extend Mighty Indians IP with 3D Webisodes and More

    Mumbai Indians today announced the launch of Season 2 of Mighty Indians with an all-new slate of 20+ 3D webisodes, expanding the animated superhero universe built around the franchise’s iconic players.

     

    The rich character assets and visual storytelling are translating to commercial partnerships across product categories such as toys, apparel, school supplies, publishing and collectibles. Early prototypes of merchandise have received an enthusiastic response, and formal brand collaborations are being explored.Building on the momentum and widespread fan engagement from Season 1, the IP returns with richer storytelling, high-quality 3D animation, and deeper character arcs – all brought to life by Green Gold Animation, India’s leading animation studio and creators of Chhota Bheem.

     

    Created by Mumbai Indians in partnership with Burman Sports, the exclusive commercial and production rights holders, and Green Gold Animation, Mighty Indians transforms star cricketers Rohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Deepak Chahar, Will Jacks, and Trent Boult into a team of animated superheroes, each with a unique origin story, power, and purpose.With over 47.5 million views generated through 20+ episodes, promos, and short-form edits across formats, Mighty Indians has grown into one of the most-watched and talked-about crossover IPs in Indian sports entertainment.

     

    To create an impact on-ground, 12-foot superhero statues of the Mighty Indians players were installed at Mumbai Airport Terminal 2 for the duration for IPL 2025, reaching over 85,000 travellers daily.What began as an animated series has embedded itself into cricket culture. From YouTube screens to towering airport installations to merchandise, Mighty Indians is no longer just content – it’s becoming part of how fans and families experience the spirit of cricket and storytelling in a new, more imaginative way.

     

    A Mumbai Indians Spokesperson commented, “Mighty Indians is more than an animated series – it’s an extension of our philosophy to engage fans beyond the boundaries of the cricket field. With Season 2, we are expanding this universe through immersive 3D storytelling and richer stories. It reflects the spirit of the Mumbai Indians and brings it alive in a way that resonates with young audiences and families alike.”

     

    “This has been one of the most creatively fulfilling projects we’ve ever worked on,” said Rajiv Chilaka, Founder and CEO of Green Gold Animation.

     

    “We’ve built some of India’s most beloved characters, but Mighty Indians gave us the chance to blend cricketing icons with mythic storytelling and create something that has both local heart and global potential.” Shiv Burman, Founder of Burman Sports, added, “We used to watch cricket in a linear way – match days on television, and that was it. But today’s kids have countless options competing for their attention, and if we want cricket to stay relevant to them, we have to meet them where they are. Mighty Indians is our way of doing just that by combining the power of sports heroes with the universal appeal of animation. It’s a format that not only entertains but builds long-term emotional connection with the next generation of fans. We’re already working with licensing partners to create merchandise, and multiple discussions are underway with brands looking to connect with children and families by leveraging the might of Mumbai Indians through this IP.

     

    “Mighty Indians is no longer just a piece of content. It is a platform for cricket, for imagination, and for the next generation of Indian storytelling.Because in this universe, anyone can be mighty.

  • Bhumi and Samiksha Pednekar Launch Backbay: A New Chapter in Sustainable Hydration

    Bhumi and Samiksha Pednekar Launch Backbay: A New Chapter in Sustainable Hydration

    Bhumi Pednekar, along with her sister, lawyer-turned-entrepreneur Samiksha Pednekar, unveil Backbay a next-generation beverage brand that reimagines hydration for the modern Indian lifestyle. Rooted in wellness and shaped by conscious consumption, Backbay’s debut offering is natural mineral water, bottled at source in the Himalayan foothills. Rich in naturally occurring minerals and electrolytes, it’s housed in sleek, planet-conscious cartons-designed as a bold, sustainable alternative to traditional PET packaging.

     

    Bhumi & Samiksha Pednekar, Co-Founders of Backbay

    Backbay is crafted for a new generation of mindful consumers who seek purpose, purity, and intentionality in their everyday choices. Originating as glacial melt, the water slowly filters through mineral-rich formations, absorbing naturally occurring magnesium, calcium, and potassium. It is drawn from a protected Himalayan reservoir and bottled in a women-led facility in Himachal Pradesh. Backbay delivers clean, naturally alkaline mineral water designed to nourish both your body and your values.

     

    A New-Age Beverage Brand Reimagining Hydration in India

    “I’ve always been conscious of what I consume and how it impacts my health and the environment,” says Bhumi Pednekar. “When I looked at the bottled water space, it felt outdated and lacking in trust. Despite being the most essential beverage, water hasn’t seen meaningful innovation. Most options come in plastic, and the alternatives are either expensive or inaccessible. This made us rethink how water should be sourced, packaged, and experienced. That’s how Backbay began. Every choice we’ve made reflects our values of integrity, sustainability, and long-term impact. Backbay is not just a product. It is a cleaner, safer choice – one that prioritises people and the planet.”

     

    At the heart of Backbay is its sustainability-first packaging. The water comes in lightweight, FSC-certified paperboard cartons topped with plant-based caps made from sugarcane resin. Fully recyclable, travel-friendly, and built to withstand India’s heat without chemical leaching, these cartons are as functional as they are future-forward.

     

    “Water is the most essential product we consume every day, yet ironically, it’s also the most overlooked,” adds Samiksha Pednekar. “The category is flooded with vague claims, plastic pollution, and a lack of transparency. With Backbay, we saw a clear gap, to build a hydration brand rooted in integrity, design, and conscious sourcing. This wasn’t just a business opportunity; it was a chance to simplify choices in a cluttered space and bring clarity to something as fundamental as the water we drink.”

     

    Backbay introduces two versatile carton sizes tailored to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. The 500 ml pack is perfect for on-the-go hydration – whether youre heading to the gym, commuting, traveling, or powering through a busy workday. For more sustained refreshment at home, in the office, in wellness spaces, across HoReCa establishments, the 750 ml option offers optimal convenience and eco-conscious style.

     

    Backbay Aqua will enter the market at the end of August, launching across select cities through a well-planned mix of high-impact retail and quick-commerce channels. The brand’s omnichannel rollout includes leading platforms such as Swiggy Instamart and Zepto, supported by its own D2C website and Amazon to ensure seamless accessibility. To further strengthen its presence, Backbay Aqua will also be available at top-tier grocery destinations like Nature’s Basket and Foodstories, as well as through select hospitality partners. Anchored in a wellness-driven product philosophy, a transparent and sustainable supply chain. Water in a box Yes, because what’s good for you should also be good for the planet.

  • Vidyut Jammwal Joins the Spykar Movement with the Launch of Chico Fit

    Vidyut Jammwal Joins the Spykar Movement with the Launch of Chico Fit

    In a strategic move that reinforces its leadership in fashion, Spykar, India‘s leading homegrown denim brand, welcomes action star and fitness icon Vidyut Jammwal to its growing community. Bringing his bold, individualistic spirit to the forefront, Vidyut Jammwal headlines Spykar‘s latest campaign featuring Chico, the most desirable denim in Spykar‘s portfolio of fits. With a relaxed silhouette and engineered comfort, Chico Fit reflects a generation that values authenticity, movement, and effortless style, making Vidyut the perfect face for this confident new era. This partnership brings together two bold forces driven by a shared commitment to self-expression and effortless style, marking a defining moment in Spykar’s journey.

     

    Vidyut Jammwal Joins the Spykar Movement with the Launch of Chico Fit the Most Desirable Denim Fit Yet

    At the core of the Chico fit lies a thoughtfully designed, relaxed silhouette that strikes the perfect balance between structure and ease. Made from premium stretch denim and engineered for breathability, Chico delivers a sleek, modern fit that moves with you, without compromising on comfort. More than just a style statement, it reflects Spykar‘s commitment to reimagining denim for today‘s fast-paced, purpose-driven lifestyles, where performance, versatility, and refined aesthetics come together to create an everyday essential that feels as good as it looks.

     

    Sanjay Vakharia, Co-founder and CEO of Spykar said, “Spykar has always spoken the language of denim i.e. expressive, unapologetic, and relentlessly authentic. With Vidyut joining our community, we‘re not just adding a face; we‘re amplifying a mindset. Chico represents everything a denim universe requires – style, performance, and purpose. This collaboration is a powerful step forward in our journey to shape how India wears and owns its identity.”

     

    Spykar X Vidyut in Chico the most desirable fit!

    Spykar teams up with Vidyut Jammwal to mark a bold new denim era. With his global appeal, fearless style, and stronghold in fitness, Vidyut perfectly embodies the spirit of Chico, desirable, versatile, and unapologetically individual. This collaboration reflects a confident new India, where fashion meets individuality.

     

    Actor Vidyut Jammwal said, “Spykar represents a mindset – one that‘s confident, original, and unapologetically expressive. Joining the Spykar community felt like a natural fit for me, and being part of the Chico campaign is an exciting way to celebrate style with purpose. Chico is not just about denim, it‘s about freedom, strength, and owning your space with pride.”

     

    With this collaboration, Spykar continues to strengthen its position as a cultural catalyst in Indian fashion celebrating those who defy convention and dress with intent. Chico, already a standout in the brand‘s denim portfolio, takes center stage in a campaign that reflects the bold attitude of a generation that refuses to be defined. As Spykar and Vidyut Jammwal come together, the message is clear: when confidence meets comfort, style becomes a statement of purpose.

  • Digital Gold vs Physical Gold : Which is Better

    Digital Gold vs Physical Gold : Which is Better

    In today’s investment landscape, gold remains a trusted asset for Indian investors. Traditionally, physical gold as jewelry or coins has a popular choice for wealth preservation and growth. Digital gold is a modern alternative that’s gaining an advantage. It allows investors to buy, sell, and store gold online without any hassle. While physical gold has drawbacks like storage and handling, digital gold is popular for the ease it provides.

     

    Digital Gold vs Physical Gold: Which is Better

    Physical gold offers ownership in coins or jewellery and acts as a hedge against inflation. It offers liquidity but requires safe storage and insurance, and in some cases, high making charges. Often times, buyers may face issues like a high initial investment amount, risk of theft, and lack of physical documentation about purity or hallmarks.

    Digital gold provides a modern means to invest in gold online using apps and websites. It enables investors to buy small quantities of gold without physically securing it themselves. With real-time pricing that reflects the market price of physical gold as well as easy liquidity, digital gold suits tech-savvy investors.

     

    Here is a quick comparison between the two:

    Parameters Physical Gold Digital Gold
    Accessibility Requires buying in fixed quantities like 10g or more Can invest fractionally with as little as Rs. 100
    Price Homogeneity Differs by cities, stores, and sellers when it comes to jewellery Prices may vary across platforms, but are linked to live market prices
    Additional Costs Making charges add 20-30% to the actual gold price, and 3% GST is the norm Only 3% GST is charged on the purchase
    Storage Requires physical storage at secure vaults, bank lockers, or at home Stored safely in secure vaults as per the provider on behalf of the buyer
    Taxes on Gains from Selling Gold Gains are taxed based on slab rates if gold is held for less than 3 years and at 20.8% if held for more than 3 years The same tax laws apply to digital gold as physical gold
    Ease of Buying and Selling Can be sold through jewellers or personal connections and bought from banks, non-banking financial institutions, Indian Government mint sales offices, and jewellers Can be bought online at any time and redeemed as physical gold or sold on the app or website
  • Lava Announces Exciting Smartphone Offers; Agni 3 Available for as Low as ₹16,999

    Lava Announces Exciting Smartphone Offers; Agni 3 Available for as Low as ₹16,999

    Lava International Limited, the leading homegrown smartphone manufacturer, has announced the latest edition of its recurring festive sale property, Lava Days, which returns with exciting offers on a wide range of Lava smartphones. Running from April 23 to 27, 2025, this ongoing event on Amazon brings significant value to consumers looking to upgrade their devices, especially with special discounts on Lava’s flagship and budget smartphones.

     

    Lava Sale Day Offer

    From April 23 to April 25, customers can avail a flat ₹3,000 coupon discount on the 8+128 GB (Without Charger) and 8+256 GB (With Charger) variants of Agni 3. The savings deepen further on April 26 and 27, when all three variants of the Agni 3, including the 8+128 GB (With Charger), will be available with a ₹2,000 coupon discount and an additional ₹2,000 bank offer on HDFC and Axis Bank credit cards and credit card EMI, amounting to a total benefit of up to ₹4,000.

     

    The Lava Agni 3 stands out with its segment-first dual AMOLED displays (a 6.78″ 1.5K 3D Curved AMOLED in the front and a 1.74″ AMOLED screen at the back), a powerful MediaTek Dimensity 7300X processor, and a versatile triple rear camera setup led by a 50MP Sony sensor with OIS. With a 5000mAh battery, 66W fast charging, dual stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, and a clean Android 14 experience, Agni 3 offers a compelling package for users who demand both style and performance.

    • Up to ₹4,000 off on Lava Agni 3 through coupon and bank discounts
    • Flat discounts available on popular models including Lava O3 and O3 Pro
    • Offers valid between April 23 and April 27 exclusively on Amazon

     

    In addition to Agni 3, Lava is also offering flat coupon discounts on other popular models such as the Lava O3 and Lava O3 Pro, making this Lava Days sale a valuable opportunity for customers across segments.

    Model

    Offer Period

    Variants Covered

    Current Price

    Offer Details

    Effective Price

    Applicable On

    Lava Agni 3

    Apr 23-25

    8+128 GB (Without Charger)

    ₹20,999

    Flat ₹3,000 coupon discount

    ₹17,999

    Amazon; All users

    8+256 GB (With Charger)

    ₹24,999

    ₹21,999

    Apr 26-27

    8+128 GB (Without Charger)

    ₹20,999

    ₹2,000 coupon discount + ₹2,000 bank offer

    ₹16,999

    Amazon; HDFC & Axis CC / CC EMI

    8+128 GB (With Charger)

    ₹22,999

    ₹18,999

    8+256 GB (With Charger)

    ₹24,999

    ₹16,999

    Lava O3

    Apr 23-27

    4+64 GB

    ₹6,199

    Flat ₹300 coupon discount

    ₹5,899

    Amazon; All users

    3+64 GB

    ₹5,799

    Flat ₹150 coupon discount

    ₹5,649

    Amazon; All users

    Lava O3 Pro

    Apr 23-27

    4+128 GB

    ₹6,999

    Flat ₹300 coupon discount

    ₹6,699

    Amazon; All users
  • Sony India Launches its First 800 mm Super Telephoto Zoom G Lens

    Sony India Launches its First 800 mm Super Telephoto Zoom G Lens

    Sony India announces the FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS (SEL400800G) – Sony’s first(i) 800 mm super-telephoto zoom G Lens. This brand-new Alpha lens flaunts high resolution performance across the entire zoom range, beautiful bokeh, as well as fast, precise, and accurate AF (autofocus). In addition, the inner-zoom design, which minimises change in the center of gravity, allows for stable framing. It is also compatible with the separately sold 1.4x and 2x teleconverter(ii) that can extend the maximum focal length to 1600 mm making this lens ideal for shooting birds, wildlife, sports, aircraft and landscapes.

     

    Sony 800 mm Super Telephoto Zoom G Lens

    “The FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS redefines super-telephoto photography with outstanding clarity, stunning bokeh and lightning-fast autofocus. Its advanced design ensures stability and precision, whether handheld or tripod-mounted, empowering photographers to capture distant subjects with unmatched ease and detail,” said Mukesh Srivastava, Head of Digital Imaging Business, Sony India.

     

    1. Go long with the Alpha lens of 800 mm super telephoto zoom

    The FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS is the Alpha lens to cover a 400 mm to 800 mm super telephoto range and can even be extended to a maximum focal length of 1600 mm with a 2x teleconverter. With an inner-zoom mechanism, the length of the lens does not change, so the centre of gravity remains almost unchanged for stable handling and control. The lens features a smooth, easy zoom ring rotation for precise zooming, whilst careful design prevents any accidental focal length changes.

     

    2. Beautiful rendering and natural bokeh throughout the zoom range

    The FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS has an 11-blade circular aperture that helps to create beautiful ball bokeh in smooth, creamy background when shooting with a narrow depth of field. Six ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements effectively control chromatic aberration, whilst flare and ghosting in backlit conditions are also thoroughly suppressed for beautiful photography.

     

    3. Fast, precise AF captures even the quickest subjects

    Two precision linear motors drive the FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS ‘s focus group for fast, accurate focusing. Tracking keeps up with the 120 fps(iii) maximum burst speed of the Alpha 9 III, and quiet operation expands the array of possibilities. A focus range switch (FULL/10m-NEAR/∞-8m) can also be used to optimise control for different subject distances. Focus breathing is suppressed for refined movie quality.

     

    4. Solid support for handheld or tripod-mounted shooting

    The FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS can easily be used handheld without shake-induced blur by the built-in Optical SteadyShot TM image stabilisation. What’s more, stabilisation is even better with an Alpha body that includes image stabilisation. Durable components, optimised balance, and a non-removable foot maximises reliability and performance. And when using a tripod, the tripod mount foot can be quickly rotated for horizontal or vertical orientation, that supports a wide range of shooting subjects.

     

    5. High-level control and reliability for any situation

    Three focus hold buttons at 90 increments around the FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS ‘s barrel allow easy access in any orientation and other functions can be assigned to the buttons as needed. The internal zoom and a dust and moisture resistant(iv) design maximises reliability with a front element that has a fluorine coating that repels contaminants and makes the lens easier to clean. Additionally, Full-time DMF automatically engages manual focus when the focus ring is operated, making it easy to apply fine manual adjustments or change the focus entirely. Lastly, the lens hood has a new design with a lock button and filter opening for easy operation.

     

    Pricing and Availability

    The FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS lens will be available across all Sony Centers, Alpha Flagship stores, Sony authorized dealers and major electronic stores across India from 17th March 2025 onwards.

    Model : FE 400-800mm F6.3-8 G OSS | MRP (in Rs.) : 264,990/- | Availability : 17th March 2025 onwards

  • Duchess Kumari Debuts at PTAT, A Celebration of Heritage and Modernity

    Duchess Kumari Debuts at PTAT, A Celebration of Heritage and Modernity

    Duchess Kumari has finally arrived in the world of high fashion, making a grand entrance at the Project Tete-A-Tete Store on 28th March with a high-tea party co-hosted by influencer Reshma Ajbani.

     

    The exclusive showcase drew an elite mix of fashion-forward influencers, socialites, and industry tastemakers for an unforgettable soft launch – where cultural elegance and contemporary style came alive to the soul-stirring melodies of a live violin and sitar. Adhyayan Suman, Divita Rai and Alka Suman are the Co-Founders of Duchess Kumari

     

    Guests were immersed in a collection that marries heritage and modernity – think rich brocades, raw silk, chanderi, and ikkat paired effortlessly with bows, polka dots, pearls, and crystals. The result A bold, reimagined take on heritage wear that’s as versatile as it is striking.

     

    The brand brings together the creative vision of actor, singer, and filmmaker Adhyayan Suman and the structural mastery of architect-turned-Miss Universe India Divita Rai to redefine confidence and self-expression. As the brand’s Creative Head with 35 years of industry experience, fashion designer Alka Suman adds a touch of timeless elegance, seamlessly blending traditional techniques with modern-day aesthetics.

     

    Speaking about the launch, Adhyayan and Divita shared, “Duchess Kumari is more than a label, it’s a tribute to today’s woman who truly does it all. Partnering with PTAT for this showcase allowed us to connect with an audience that truly appreciates heritage woven into contemporary design.” With its Pret and Bespoke lines, Duchess Kumari is poised to break the boundaries of fashion, proving that true royalty isn’t about lineage or labels but the courage to define yourself.

  • Want To Boost Your Credit Score Easily : What You Should Know

    Want To Boost Your Credit Score Easily : What You Should Know

    A low credit score is a common reason for the rejection of loan applications or unfavourable terms. A poor score indicates a higher level of risk for the lending bank or NBFC, making it more difficult for borrowers to secure the desired loan amounts, quick approval, or even the most competitive interest rates.

     

    However, with regular CIBIL score checks, borrowers can identify areas for improvement and boost their creditworthiness. This can help increase their negotiating power and get faster loan approvals, which are especially useful when addressing emergencies like medical treatment or home/vehicle repair.

     

    Understanding Credit Scores
    This three-digit number is a summary of a user’s credit behaviour and helps lenders assess an applicant’s ability to repay borrowed funds. This score, usually ranging from 300 to 900, reflects credit history and past repayment behaviour.

     

    Four platforms provide credit score checks in India, including:

    • TransUnion CIBIL
    • CRIF High Mark
    • Experian
    • Equifax

     

    Credit Scores Impact on Loan Approval
    A strong credit score increases the likelihood of quick loan approval. As the score increases, borrowers can look forward to getting more affordable loan offers. On the other hand, a low score may lead to rejection or a higher interest rate with a lower loan amount. It is important to check one’s credit score before applying for a loan or credit card. This helps in assessing one’s eligibility. If borrowers see a low score, they can take time to enhance it before applying to increase their chances for a pocket-friendly loan offer.

     

    Consider the following example:

    Case A

    Case B

    Shiksha performed a CIBIL score check before applying for a home loan of Rs. 50 Lakhs

    Amarjit applied for the same loan with a credit score of 620, indicating higher risk

    Her score of 775 showed strong creditworthiness

    The lender imposed stricter scrutiny due to the higher risk

    She was classified as a low-risk borrower

    Approval was not immediate due to additional checks

    The loan was approved at an 8% interest rate for a tenure of 25 years

    The loan was offered at a 9.5% interest rate for the same tenure of 25 years

    Her EMI came to Rs. 38,591, lowering her repayment burden

    This increased his EMIs to Rs. 43,685, increasing his repayment burden

    *Disclaimer: The example above and the EMI calculation are for illustration purposes only. The actual amount can vary as per the lenders policies, terms, and charges. (as on 12 Mar 25)

     

    Five Factors That Lower CIBIL Scores : Here are the key reasons that may negatively impact a borrowers credit score.

    Missed or Late Payments : Delayed or skipped EMIs and credit card bills reduce the score. Days Past Due (DPD) entries indicate defaults, and even small unpaid amounts can have a negative impact.

    Too Many Credit Applications : Applying for multiple loans or credit cards within a short time increases hard enquiries, signalling credit-hungry behaviour. Rejections further reduce the score.

    Errors in Credit Report : Mistakes like incorrect details, duplicate accounts, or false loan records can lower the score. Regularly checking and raising disputes helps correct them.

    High Credit Utilisation Ratio (CUR) : Using over 30% of the total credit limit (on a credit card) can hurt the score. Even with timely payments, high CUR lowers creditworthiness.

    Poor Credit Mix : A balanced mix of secured and unsecured loans strengthens the credit profile. Relying only on one type of credit may slightly impact the score. Apart from these reasons, not having any experience with credit is also detrimental to building a score.

  • Transparency in Personal Loan Fees and Charges : What You Should Know

    Transparency in Personal Loan Fees and Charges : What You Should Know

    Personal loans have emerged as a popular choice for individuals seeking quick access to funds for a diverse range of reasons. Many financial institutions these days offer collateral-free personal loans, at competitive interest rates, making them easily accessible for people from all walks of life. However, with the convenience of these loans comes the importance of understanding the associated fees and charges. To ensure informed decision-making, borrowers should be aware of the factors that determine the fees and charges of personal loans.

     

    Things to Understand About Personal Loan Fees and Charges

    Discussed below are a few things that applicants must understand about the interest rates, and fees and charges of personal loans to make an informed borrowing decision.

     

    1. Interest Rates :

    Annual Percentage Rate (APR) : The APR represents the total cost of borrowing, including interest and other fees. Compare APRs from different lenders to identify the most affordable option.

     

    2. Processing Fees :

    One-Time Charge : Processing fees are typically a one-time charge levied by lenders to cover administrative costs associated with processing the loan application.

    Percentage of Loan Amount : Depending on the financial institution’s policies, processing fees can often be expressed as a percentage of the loan amount.

     

    3. Prepayment Charges:

    Penalty for Early Repayment: Some loan providers may impose prepayment or foreclosure charges if you decide to repay the loan before the scheduled term. Discuss with your loan provider to gain a holistic picture of these charges.

    Check for Waiver Options: Enquire about any waiver options or conditions for prepayment charges.

     

    4. Late Payment Fees :

    Penalty for Missed Payments: Late payment fees are incurred when you fail to make a payment on the due date.

    Impact on Credit Score: Late payments can negatively impact your credit score. Enable auto-debit options to avoid late payments and therefore, negatively affecting your credit score.

     

    5. Other Charges :

    Documentation Charges: These fees may be charged for document verification and processing.

    Stamp Duty: In some jurisdictions, stamp duty may be applicable on loan agreements.

     

    Conclusion :

    By understanding the various fees and charges associated with personal loans, borrowers can make informed decisions and choose the most suitable loan option for their financial needs. With personal loans becoming increasingly simple to apply and be sanctioned for, understanding the fees and charges associated with them is non-negotiable. Comparing the loan products from different lenders can help you make a wise choice and apply for the loan that suits your financial profile the best.

  • Arrow Electronics Launches Robotics Solutions Resources

    Arrow Electronics Launches Robotics Solutions Resources

    Arrow Electronics has developed and launched a set of resources to help members of the electronics community better understand the advancements in the rapidly evolving robotics landscape.

     

    Building upon its existing wealth of resources, Arrow has created a robotics playbook, containing insights and component recommendations to help companies get products to market faster, as well as a series of webinars that will be taking place over the coming weeks. The Robotics Solutions landing page also allows users to dive into supplier offerings and discover the solutions that best fit their needs.

     

    Robots and autonomous machines are transforming industries by enhancing efficiency, improving safety and reducing costs across a wide range of applications. Arrow works with leading suppliers to provide innovative robotic technologies, including autonomous mobile robots with AI-driven navigation, collaborative robots (cobots) designed to safely work alongside humans and drones for tasks, such as aerial surveillance and delivery.

     

    Two webinars are currently available on demand. The first, Industrial Evolution: How to Leverage the Power of AI/ML and Robotics presented by Arrow and Microchip, explores how Microchips cutting edge technologies in secure authentication, predictive maintenance, smart embedded vision and multi-axis motor control are revolutionizing design processes.

     

    The second, Advance Edge AI and Robotics Development with NVIDIA Full-Stack Accelerated Computing Platform presented by Arrow and NVIDIA, demonstrates how NVIDIAs Jetson platform, foundational AI models and Isaac ROS workflows are transforming robotics with edge AI. It also shares practical frameworks for building autonomous systems and explores real-world case studies showcasing rapid development.

     

    Arrow will also be hosting two further webinars, the first on 19th March with Qualcomm, and the second on 25th March with NXP.